AKL01 Whenuapai Data Centre
At a glance
A purpose-built data centre, shaped through multidisciplinary collaboration to overcome complex infrastructure challenges. The project meets stringent client requirements for operational continuity and delivers secure and long-term digital resilience.
The challenge
DCI Data Centres needed a local partner to adapt a data centre design to meet site-specific and client requirements. The project also required delivery under time-critical conditions to meet the client’s schedule. It presented significant technical complexity, demanding detailed coordination with utility providers and stakeholders to deliver continuity of operations.
Our response
GHD brought together multidisciplinary services, combining design and engineering capability to deliver a future-ready facility. GHD Design led the architectural scope, while GHD provided building services and structure solutions with a focus on energy efficiency and resilience. We took the initial concept design and carried it through to detailed design and documentation, leading to commissioning and handover to DCI Data Centre operations.
The project presented significant technical complexity across power continuity, air quality, security, fire protection, cooling and integration with the national power network. GHD addressed these key challenges through detailed coordination with utility providers and other stakeholders, developing solutions that maintained continuity of operations throughout the project. Our team designed resilient electrical systems to support zero-tolerance for power loss, implemented advanced strategies to maintain optimal air quality and developed fire protection systems tailored to the facility’s operational demands. Integration with the national grid was achieved through precise planning and collaboration, achieving connectivity and compliance with high-voltage requirements.
Collaboration with DCI Data Centres, Vector and Auckland Council sustained project momentum, enabling the team to meet critical deadlines.
The impact
The project delivered efficient and resilient cloud infrastructure, made possible through close collaboration across GHD's multidisciplinary teams, alignment with client needs and proactive engagement with operational service stakeholders. The facility meets stringent client requirements while enabling reliable, long-term digital resilience.
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